A team sport is a game in which the outcome depends on the collective performance of the players of a single side during the whole duration of the competition. This type of sports includes baseball, hockey, American football, association football, rugby league and cricket as well as many other games such as basketball, volleyball, tennis, rowing, water polo, handball and lacrosse.

The distinguishing characteristic of team sports is that the participants share a common identity (e.g., the team name, uniforms and coaches). In addition, they have agreed to a set of social norms that dictate how members should behave and contribute during training sessions and matches. These values and the sense of belonging that they promote are what define a team as opposed to traditional groups such as schools or work units.

Kids will learn to communicate effectively with teammates and coaches, both verbally and nonverbally. Communication can take the form of coaching drills and conversations during practice, player chats on the field before a game, or even a subtle signal (e.g., a finger up for an infield catch or a stick tap to let a coach know that the player has been called out on a penalty).

Playing team sports helps your kids stay motivated to reach fitness and wellness objectives and gives them a way to connect with friends. It also encourages cooperation because, in order to succeed, teams must work together. Research shows that playing team sports during childhood and adolescence leads to greater confidence, self-esteem, character development and other positive qualities.